On December 3. 2015, Carville Job Corps Center launched its first Young Men’s Retreat. The theme for the empowering experience was ‘TYING IT AL TOGETHER, ‘which manifested through the students wearing neckties and bowties. The student’s first round of excitement came with the willingness to ‘dress up’ and wear ties.  The morning of the retreat was filled with exuberance. The Carville male students helped one another with tying ties, coordinating outfits: “Man, how does this look? Does this match? Does this look ok? 

The retreat was a Success!!  The presenters were motivating, they engaged with the students and were well-received by the male students.  Each phase provided students with empowering information:

Phase 1: Man-Up–Manners Matters

Phase 2: Step-Up–Dress for Success

Phase 3: Speak-Up–Planned Parenthood

Phase 4: Send-Up –Effective Communication / Feelings

Phase 5: Set-Up–Life Skills

The students were so engaged, they talked with presenters and asked questions after the presentations.  Hats off to the presenters, supporting staff and community business partners for their generous donations.